The versions of this generations, S-Class 260 SE to 560 SE, 300 SEL to 560 SEL, had the following new features:
New safety concept, the world's first series production car to be configured for an asymmetrical, frontal crash (offset crash)
First use worldwide of a driver airbag and belt tensioner in a series production car (available from 1981)
Front passenger airbag (available from 1987)
Three-point seat belts in the rear
Automatic locking differential
... more